Side-by-Side Comparison
Food Additives & E-Numbers
E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking) vs. E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
E170: Calcium Carbonate (Mineral White Color / Anti-Caking)
E338: Phosphoric Acid (Cola Acidulant)
E170 (Calcium Carbonate / CaCO3) is a fine mineral salt mined from limestone or precipitated synthetically. INS 170(i), ADI is Not Limited (Quantum Satis), serving as a white surface colorant, acidity buffer, anti-caking agent, and calcium nutrient fortificant.
E338 (Phosphoric Acid / H3PO4) is a mineral inorganic acid providing a uniquely dry, tangy, astringent sourness. INS 338, group ADI is 40 mg/kg bw/day (as phosphorus), the quintessential acidulant in cola beverages and processed cheeses.
Specification Comparison Table
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
E-Number Code
|
E170 | E338 |
|
INS / Codex Number
|
INS 170(i) | INS 338 |
|
Functional Class
|
Food Color (White / Opacifier), Anti-Caking, Acidity Regulator, Nutrient | Acidulant, Acidity Regulator, Sequestrant, Emulsifying Salt |
|
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
|
Not Limited (Quantum Satis) | 40 mg / kg body weight per day (Group ADI as phosphorus) |
|
Chemical Formula
|
CaCO3 | H3PO4 (pKa1 2.15) |
|
Primary Mechanism
|
High refractive index light scattering creating white opacity; neutralizes acids to calcium salts and CO2 | Lowers beverage pH to ~2.5 with a clean, sharp, non-fruity tang; retards bacterial outgrowth |
|
Common Target Foods
|
Chewing gum coatings, plant milks (Soy/Almond calcium fortification), baking powders, tablets | Cola soft drinks, root beers, processed cheese melts, sports hydration drinks |
|
Dietary Compliance
|
Vegan (Mineral limestone), Halal, Kosher | Vegan (Mineral phosphate synthesis), Halal, Kosher |
|
Safety Approval
|
EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 184.1191) | EFSA Authorized / FDA GRAS (21 CFR 182.1073) |
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